Last updated: August 31, 2025
Experience the varied May weather in Gisborne, New Zealand, where temperatures range from a comfortable maximum of 23°C (73°F) to a cooler minimum of 5°C (41°F), with an average hovering around 13°C (56°F). This month, expect 69 mm (2.7 in) of precipitation spread over 10 days, resulting in a humid environment with an average humidity of 77%. As autumn settles in, the coastal beauty of Gisborne offers a unique blend of mild temperatures and refreshing rainfall, making it a fascinating season to explore this vibrant region.
In May, Gisborne, New Zealand, welcomes the cool embrace of autumn, with temperatures gradually shifting downwards. The month begins with a minimum of around 5°C (41°F), contrasting with the warmer summer months, while reaching a maximum of 23°C (73°F). The average temperature of 13°C (56°F) signifies a notable drop from the preceding months, reflecting the region's transition into winter. This trend of decreasing temperatures is consistent throughout the year, as Gisborne experiences a gentle tapering from the balmy heights of January and February to the crispness of May. The soothing climate in May offers a pleasant backdrop for outdoor adventures amid the stunning landscapes for those visiting during this serene time.
In May, Gisborne experiences a notable 69 mm (2.7 in) of precipitation over approximately 10 days, marking a moderate decline from April's wetter conditions. This transitional month often signifies the tail end of the autumn season, with rainfall levels that hint at the approaching winter. However, May's totals remain robust compared to the earlier months of the year, suggesting a steady pattern of increasing rainfall as the region moves from summer into cooler months. Despite the slight dip, the precipitation in May contributes to Gisborne's lush landscapes, confirming its reputation for vibrant foliage in the lead-up to winter. As the region braces for June's average of 117 mm (4.6 in), it becomes evident that the seasonal shift brings a significant uptick in moisture.
In May, Gisborne, New Zealand experiences a noticeable rise in humidity, reaching 77%, which is slightly above the month before. This uptick marks a transitional phase as the region shifts from the milder autumn months into the cooler winter season. Following a trend seen from January through April, where humidity levels gradually decreased from 76% to 73%, May's increase suggests a natural ebb and flow of moisture in the air, setting the stage for an even more humid June at 78%. As such, residents and visitors alike can expect a damp but refreshing start to winter in Gisborne, emphasizing the unique climatic patterns that define this beautiful coastal region.
As May rolls around in Gisborne, New Zealand, the UV Index takes a noticeable dip to 4, indicating a moderate level of sun exposure risk. This is a significant drop from the extreme values seen in the height of summer months, like January and February, which soared to 14 and 13, respectively, where burn time was a mere 10 minutes. In contrast, May allows for a safer 30 minutes before the sun’s rays could lead to skin damage. Following the pattern of decreasing UV levels from March through to June, it's a gentle reminder of the changing seasons, marking a shift towards cooler weather. As you enjoy the autumn sun, remember that despite the lower UV index, protection is still advisable. For more information, check out the Gisborne UV Index.
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In Gisborne, New Zealand, May brings a gentle transition into winter with an average of 208 hours of sunshine, marking a decrease from the sun-kissed days of earlier months. Following the summer peak in January with a sunny 284 hours, the pattern reveals a gradual decline in sunlight, reaching its low point in June at just 173 hours. After May, the sunlight begins to rise again, hinting at a bright spring ahead. This seasonal rhythm highlights Gisborne's unique climate, where each month offers its own character, inviting residents and visitors alike to appreciate the subtle changes in daylight as the year unfolds.
In Gisborne, New Zealand, the likelihood of sunny weather in May stands at a moderate 45%, reflecting a pleasant mid-autumn climate. This figure shows a slight decline from the sunniest months of January and April, each boasting a 53% chance of sunshine. Notably, while the chances are lower than those earlier in the year, May still outperforms the winter months of June and July, which dip to 35% and 46%, respectively. As the region transitions from summer to winter, it appears that May offers a reasonably optimistic outlook for sun-seekers, nestled between the peaks of late summer and the cooler, cloudier days ahead.
In Gisborne, New Zealand, the progression of daylight hours throughout the year paints a vivid picture of seasonal change. Starting with the longest days in January at 14 hours, the daylight gradually diminishes as summer gives way to autumn, reaching 10 hours by May. This downward trend continues into winter with June and July experiencing the shortest days at 9 hours. As winter fades, daylight begins to reclaim its hours; August sees a slight increase back to 10 hours, transitioning into a steady rise through spring. By the time we reach October, daylight stretches back to 13 hours, peaking again at 14 hours in November and December. This rhythm of increasing and decreasing daylight not only marks the passing of the seasons but also enhances the charm of Gisborne's outdoor experiences throughout the year.
In May, Gisborne experiences a notable uptick in wind speed, averaging 5.0 m/s (11 mph), making it the windiest month since early winter. This rise marks a departure from the slightly calmer conditions of April, which averaged 3.6 m/s (8 mph). As the seasons shift, there’s a consistent trend of increasing wind speeds leading into the colder months, with June following closely behind at 4.8 m/s (11 mph). While the wind speeds generally hover around 4.3 m/s (10 mph) from late spring through early autumn, May’s blustery gusts highlight the seasonal transition, inviting outdoor enthusiasts to embrace the invigorating breezes that accompany this month in beautiful Gisborne.
Weather in Gisborne varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares May’s weather to other months in Gisborne, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
In comparing the weather between May and January, we see notable differences in temperature and precipitation. May tends to be cooler, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) to a maximum of 23°C (73°F) and experiencing about 69 mm (2.7 in) of rainfall over approximately 10 days. In contrast, January is warmer, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 10°C (51°F) to a maximum of 30°C (87°F), while receiving less precipitation at 38 mm (1.5 in) over around 6 days. Both months have similar humidity levels, with May at 77% and January slightly lower at 76%. For more specific information on January weather in the region, you can refer to Gisborne weather in January.
In comparing the weather conditions of May and February, notable differences emerge. February enjoys warmer temperatures, with minimums around 11°C (52°F) and maximums reaching up to 33°C (92°F), while May experiences cooler temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) to a maximum of 23°C (73°F). Additionally, February sees slightly lower precipitation, totaling 54 mm (2.1 inches) over about 8 days, compared to May's 69 mm (2.7 inches) over 10 days. Humidity levels are quite similar, with February at 75% and May at 77%. For a more detailed look at February weather, check out Gisborne weather in February.
In comparing the weather of March and May, we observe some notable differences. March tends to be warmer overall with minimum temperatures around 10°C (50°F) and average highs reaching 27°C (81°F), while May's temperatures are cooler, ranging from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) to a maximum of 23°C (73°F). Both months experience similar levels of precipitation, with March receiving 71 mm (2.8 in) and May slightly less at 69 mm (2.7 in), each spread over approximately 10 days. Additionally, March features slightly lower humidity at 73% compared to May’s 77%. For more detailed information on March weather, you can check Gisborne weather in March.
In comparing the weather between April and May, we see notable differences in temperature and precipitation patterns. April tends to be slightly warmer, with average temperatures reaching 16°C (61°F) and maximums peaking at 25°C (77°F). In contrast, May experiences cooler weather, with an average temperature of 13°C (56°F) and a maximum of 23°C (73°F). Additionally, April has slightly higher rainfall, totaling 82 mm (3.2 in) over 11 days, compared to May’s 69 mm (2.7 in) over 10 days. Humidity levels in both months are relatively high, with April at 73% and May at 77%. For more detailed information on April weather, you can visit Gisborne weather in April.
May and June showcase a noticeable shift in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) to a maximum of 23°C (73°F), with an average temperature of 13°C (56°F). This month experiences 69 mm (2.7 in) of precipitation over about 10 days and maintains a humidity level of 77%. In contrast, June sees a slight dip in temperatures, with a minimum of 4°C (40°F), an average of 12°C (53°F), and a maximum of 19°C (67°F). This month is wetter, recorded at 117 mm (4.6 in) of precipitation spread over 12 days, while humidity remains relatively consistent at 78%. For more detailed insights into June weather, visit Gisborne weather in June.
May and July present distinct weather patterns, with May typically having milder temperatures. In May, the minimum temperature averages around 5°C (41°F), peaking at a comfortable 23°C (73°F), while July sees lower temperatures with a minimum of 3°C (39°F) and a maximum of only 18°C (65°F). Precipitation levels are higher in July, with 98 mm (3.9 in) spread over 13 days, compared to May's 69 mm (2.7 in) across 10 days. Additionally, humidity remains fairly consistent, with May at 77% and July slightly higher at 78%. For more detailed insights on July weather, check out Gisborne weather in July.
In comparing the weather of May and August, we observe distinct differences in temperature and precipitation patterns. May experiences a wider temperature range, with minimums around 5°C (41°F) and maximums reaching up to 23°C (73°F), averaging at 13°C (56°F). In contrast, August sees cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 3°C (38°F) and a maximum of 19°C (66°F), averaging 11°C (52°F). While May has 69 mm (2.7 in) of precipitation over approximately 10 days, August has a bit more rainfall at 77 mm (3.0 in) spread across slightly more days, totaling 11 days of precipitation. Both months share similar humidity levels at 77%. For a closer look at the August weather specifically, you can check out Gisborne weather in August.
In May, the weather typically features a temperature range from a cool 5°C (41°F) to a pleasant maximum of 23°C (73°F), with an average temperature of 13°C (56°F). With 69 mm (2.7 in) of precipitation spread over approximately 10 days, the month experiences relatively high humidity at 77%. In contrast, September sees slightly lower temperatures, with a minimum of 4°C (39°F), an average of 12°C (54°F), and a maximum of 21°C (70°F). September is also wetter, recording 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain across about 11 days, while humidity remains close at 74%. For more details on September weather, you can check Gisborne weather in September.
In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) to a maximum of 23°C (73°F), with an average around 13°C (56°F). The month experiences approximately 69 mm (2.7 in) of precipitation over 10 days, leading to a relatively high humidity level of 77%. In contrast, October features a slightly warmer climate, with temperatures varying from 5°C (41°F) to 24°C (76°F) and an average of 14°C (57°F). The month receives a bit less rainfall, totaling about 59 mm (2.3 in) also spread over 10 days, and the humidity drops to 73%. For more details on October weather, you can check Gisborne weather in October.
May and November present distinct weather patterns, with May generally experiencing cooler temperatures. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) to a maximum of 23°C (73°F), while November sees milder conditions, with lows of 8°C (46°F) and highs reaching up to 26°C (80°F). Precipitation is slightly higher in November, accumulating to 81 mm (3.2 inches) over about 11 days compared to May's 69 mm (2.7 inches) across 10 days. Humidity levels are relatively similar, with May at 77% and November slightly lower at 74%. For more detailed insights, you can check Gisborne weather in November.
In May, temperatures in Gisborne range from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) to a maximum of 23°C (73°F), with an average of 13°C (56°F). The month sees about 69 mm (2.7 in) of precipitation spread over approximately 10 days, and the humidity levels are relatively high at 77%. In contrast, December brings milder temperatures, with a minimum of 10°C (50°F) and a maximum of 27°C (81°F), averaging 18°C (65°F). Precipitation increases slightly to 81 mm (3.2 in) over about 11 days, while humidity decreases to 73%. The differences in temperature and humidity highlight the gradual transition from the cooler, wetter May to the warmer and drier December. For more details on December's weather, visit Gisborne weather in December.
May in Gisborne presents a gentle transition into the cooler months, featuring milder temperatures and increased humidity compared to the preceding months. With an average of 13°C, the weather feels fresher, inviting a cozy feel as the landscape shifts. While rainfall is more prevalent, totaling around 69 mm over 10 days, this month typically experiences a softening of earlier autumn warmth and a gradual embrace of winter's chill. If you're curious about how these shifts in weather influence outdoor activities or local life, you can explore more at Gisborne Climate.